Cawl Recipe Vegetarian: Easy and Delicious Welsh Stew Ideas

Cawl is a traditional Welsh stew that’s known for its rich, comforting flavors and hearty ingredients. While traditionally made with lamb or beef, this vegetarian twist on cawl brings the same warmth and soul-satisfying qualities without any meat.

Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family dinners, this vegetarian cawl recipe combines fresh seasonal vegetables with aromatic herbs and a flavorful broth that will leave you feeling nourished and content.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Welsh cuisine or new to it, this recipe offers an approachable way to enjoy a plant-based version of a classic dish.

This vegetarian cawl is both simple and versatile, making it ideal for meal prep or a weekend cooking project. It’s packed with nutrient-dense vegetables like leeks, carrots, parsnips, and potatoes, simmered slowly to develop deep flavors.

The addition of fresh thyme and bay leaves adds a subtle herbal note, enhancing the stew’s complexity. Plus, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly, catering to a variety of dietary preferences.

Get ready to dive into a bowl of comfort that’s as wholesome as it is delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegetarian cawl offers a delicious alternative to traditional meat-based stews, making it accessible for vegetarians and vegans without sacrificing flavor. The slow simmering process helps all the vegetables meld beautifully, creating a broth that’s rich and inviting.

This recipe is easy to customize with whatever vegetables you have on hand, perfect for using up seasonal produce. It’s hearty enough to be a main course, yet light enough to enjoy any time of year.

Plus, it’s a great way to introduce new flavors and textures to your weekly meal rotation.

Not to mention, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 liter vegetable stock
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Vegetable peeler

Instructions

1. Prepare your vegetables: Peel and chop the carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and onion. Clean and slice the leeks, mince the garlic, and shred the cabbage.
2. Heat olive oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and leeks, sautéing until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic and root vegetables: Stir in the garlic, carrots, and parsnips. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to release their aromas.
4. Pour in vegetable stock: Add the vegetable stock, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer the stew: Add the diced potatoes and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Add green beans and cabbage: Stir in the green beans and shredded cabbage. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes until the green beans are tender but still vibrant.
7. Season to taste: Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs if used fresh. Season the cawl with salt and black pepper according to your preference.
8. Serve and garnish: Ladle the hot cawl into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a bright, fresh touch.

Tips & Variations

For extra depth of flavor, consider roasting the root vegetables first before adding them to the stew.

You can easily swap out vegetables depending on the season or what you have available. Sweet potatoes, turnips, or celery root work wonderfully in this dish.

Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors even more.

If you want to increase the protein content, toss in some cooked lentils or chickpeas during the last 15 minutes of cooking. For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of coconut cream or cashew cream right before serving.

This stew also freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch to enjoy later. Just be sure to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This hearty vegetarian cawl is best enjoyed hot, paired with a slice of crusty artisan bread or warm whole-grain rolls to mop up the flavorful broth.

For a lighter side, try a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a simple coleslaw to complement the stew’s warmth. You can also serve it alongside Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

For dessert, something light like our Lemon Straws Recipe provides the perfect citrusy finish after a savory stew.

Conclusion

Vegetarian cawl is a beautiful celebration of fresh vegetables and comforting flavors, making it a perfect dish for those seeking a wholesome, meat-free meal. Its simplicity and flexibility allow you to tailor the ingredients to your liking while delivering a satisfying and warming experience.

Whether you’re new to Welsh cuisine or looking for a new twist on traditional stews, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

By using fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables, you create a dish that’s both nourishing and delightful in every bite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or add legumes for extra protein.

And if you love slow-cooked comfort foods, be sure to check out other hearty recipes like the Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe or the savory Lamb Tenderloin Recipes for your next dinner adventure.

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